No1 for me ... Talisker 10 year old ... the maritime, sea spray and elemental smoke of that Whisky coupled with it's sweet chilli bite - makes it utterly unique every time I drink it. There is simply no other Whisky quite like Tally 10. It is for me a salt water soaked leather boot to the palate and a finish like a torn sail snapping in the wind. I utterly concur with R.L Stevenson .... it's just a grand thing! HOLD FAST!
@Kasperkatballe
6 жыл бұрын
When my son was born, i enjoyed a little dram of lagavulin 16 - ever since that Day, it has been my favorit whisky. Not the best whisky I have ever tastet but still my favorit. So good to have you back from summervacation Roy
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Thanks Kasper - good to have you joining in again and it's great to be back. Great story on the Lagavulin - and my very words, not the best whisky, but *that* whisky. Cheers to you and your son!
@gauravsoni3265
2 жыл бұрын
Superb video quality and excellent recommendations Roy, Thank you. Any chance we can have another video like this with your updated top 5's ?? Would be interesting to see what you will recommend in 2022 with soo many good options out there. :)
@Ebbhead2424
6 жыл бұрын
I love how you argue why these are your top five. Another great video, Roy! Here are my five: Bunna 12 Ardbeg 10 Springbank CS 12 (any batch) OP17 Glendronach 18 The last two are expensive but I have stocked up, so they had to be included.
@Ebbhead2424
6 жыл бұрын
Kilkerran 12 could have been on the list. I already have a replacement bottle for my current open bottle. I feel that Deanston 12 can be on my list in the future since I love my first bottle that I opened recently.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Awesome Rolf - except there's no way I can include the Springbank 12 CS - as much as I love it it's not an available whisky, not here.
@danielgray2616
5 жыл бұрын
The whisky that has had a similar impact on me is the Dalwhinnie 15 year old. I'm fairly new on my "whisky journey" took me from something I'd drink from time to time because holding a whisky always looks good that was until I had this and it Changed my entire perception of whisky. But it was bought at random as I was in the whisky library in Tokyo and i got this because my wife liked the name of it and it was a transformative moment for me and really opened my eyes. I now find myself keen to try as much as I can and really broaden my horizons and videos like yours are really allowing me to do that.
@Muskoxing
6 жыл бұрын
Great video as always! I have a no-repurchase rule that helps me try more stuff, but if I had to pick 5 basics I'd love to keep around... -Bunnahabhain 12 -Bruichladdich Classic Laddie -Arran 14 -Benromach 10 -Springbank 10 Those have all served me extremely well in the past.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Benromach 10 really deserves to be in anyone's cabinet. Thanks Adam.
@bourbonryescotch1
6 жыл бұрын
Hi Roy, I totally agree with you on the Clynelish 14 as a go to. The few times I ran into a Diageo rep at a whisky show/festival I told them that Clynelish 14 is their best whisky product in their portfolio, and that maybe they should consider offer more whisky in such a presentation (46%). Too bad, their main consumer group is the mainstream whisky buyer and not the malthead. My top 5 is random order: - Inchmurrin 12 - Clynelish 14 - Royal Lochnagar 12 - Bunnahabhain 12 - Glen Garioch 12
@tommyg5095
5 жыл бұрын
When I tasted that Bunnahabain 12 with that same label coloration as yours, I had to get a case of this.... There is really no other flavor profile that I have found that is this unique, yet truly enjoyable. Different yet great..
@slamtodeath
5 жыл бұрын
I'm enjoying these videos. Straight forward and well presented: no people skylarking or showing off for effect. Well done.
@highlandparker7912
6 жыл бұрын
Nice list! Sipping a Benromach 10 while watching. One of those which I always have available. Do you find that the Lagavulin 16 has been stable in quality over the last 10 years? I know it since 4 years and I started with an 0.2L bottle which impressed me a bit more than all the 0.7 bottles a had later. Still awsome but the small bottle was better. More intense peat aroma, which was still present in the morning...
@charliemike5097
6 жыл бұрын
Nice vid, Roy. I can't fault any of your choices. Here's my top five go-to list: 1. Ardbeg 10. This was my intro to Islay whisky and brings back so many good memories that I have to keep a bottle around. 2. Oban 14. I catch a different nuance every time I try it. Just a beautiful chameleon of a whisky. 3. Aberlour A'Bunadh. What's not to love about a cask strength sherry bomb? 4. Glendronach 18 Allardice. My first celebration whisky that stretched the wallet a bit at the time. More good memories. 5. The Peat Monster. A blend, true, but it's got wonderful peat with subtle, sweet undertones. It just tastes great to me.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Charlie, that Oban 14 is an absolute peach of a shout out and one that's too easily forgotten. America gets too much Oban, it's a cracking whisky.
@jpallen719
2 жыл бұрын
Damn that description of the Kilkerran bottle was stellar Roy! Beautiful! I wanted to bolt to the liquid store!
@292Nigel
9 ай бұрын
Good luck trying to get a bottle of Kilkerran 12 years old for around £40 as he suggests. You can double that figure!
@russell3733
6 жыл бұрын
Great picks, Roy. They're all in my cabinet within easy reaching distance - as are the Ardbeg 10 and the Caol Ila 12 (for peat) and the Glengoyne and Glenfarclas 15s (for Sherry). Reading through the comments here, I can see just how spoiled we are for choice these days. There are just so many damn good drams available for an everyday "go to" drop! Makes the journey of our whisky experience just as important (and just as much fun) as the destination. Here's to variety and the richness of a thousand palates and tastes! Cheers.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Amen Russell. Amen! And good shouts on your list too. Caol Ila 12 especially was in there for me. Love it!
@rodrigodepierola
6 жыл бұрын
For me it's the Cardhu 12. It was the first single malt I tried and it has a place in my heart and my cabinet. It's also my go-to whisky for friends who say they don't like whisky. They always like it.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Good work on the sharing it! Your "epiphany" whisky always has a place in your heart. Thanks Rodrigo.
@topshelfwhisky
6 жыл бұрын
Lagavulin, absolutely but I would Go with the 16, using your criteria I’d have to go with Laga 16/Laphroaig 10 CS/Balvenie 15/Glenfarclas 25/Highland Park 18... at least without getting too expensive... always enjoy your videos! Cheers. ~Mike
@dane5896
6 жыл бұрын
I recently got the Lagavulin 16yo, as a gift. I had not tried it before. The bottle disappeared, and had to run out and get another. I always have Redbreast 12yo, Macallan 12yo, Highland Park 12yo, Johnny Walker Green and Black and Jameson. Cheers Roy!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
You're onto a good thing with all of those, the Redbreast is a favourite here!
@marioacampa3726
6 жыл бұрын
May I suggest the 12CS. It takes the 12 to another level!
@Durian1st
5 жыл бұрын
Highland Park 12, the Old , or the Viking bottle ?.
@bdp514am
6 жыл бұрын
An admirable list to be sure. The top two on my personal list of available and reasonably priced would be easy. Hadn't really thought of a top 5 but here goes. 5. Assuming I can always source it, Compass Box Peat Monster, 4. Clynelish 14, 3. Powers John Lane, 2. Lagavulin 16, 1. Talisker 18
@bdp514am
6 жыл бұрын
Just received my 2 bottles of the Talisker 8 Cask Strength Special Release. Sampled it last night and loved it. Expected it to be akin the the Cadenhead Talisker cask strength releases back in the day, but it was quite dissimilar. Creamy, some of that tradition talisker pepper and spice, the brine mostly covered up by the proof. Add a little water and it becomes a luscious cream and introduces some vanilla. A taste I haven't found often in Talisker.
@alexwebb9659
5 жыл бұрын
Lagavulin 16...MY FAVORITE, also. When someone I know first takes a whiff (particularly someone new to Scotch) the smokiness can be overpowering(although I LOVE the nose)....once they've tasted it everyone has been mightily impressed. If you like this I highly recommend the GOT House Lannister Lagavulin 9....another AMAZING dram.
@Houman7
3 жыл бұрын
Lagavulin 16 was the whisky that made me interested in Scotch world, Lagavulin 8 is my all favorite whisky over 100 Scotch I’ve had. Love it’s fruity peaty notes.
@vwhite3055
6 жыл бұрын
I love that you included two Lagavulins, the 8 and 16. What amazes me about Lagavulin is the balance. Most peated whiskys are too strong, hitting you over the head with smoke. Lagavulins are strong, but balanced. Nice list.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
As you'll discover I'm in a bit of a Lagavulin sucker phase right now. Loving the stuff. Thanks for watching and commenting!
@paulgibbs3624
6 жыл бұрын
Fantastic to watch as always Roy. Very good list. Right then. 1 Old Pulteney 12 2 Ardbeg 10 3 Glendronach 12 4 Bunnahabhain 12 5 Kilkerran 12 In no particular order, they seem to be in the cupboard all the time. All £40 or less. Great value for money drams.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
We're pretty closely aligned Paul. Good ones all!
@bigbearddahuzi1036
4 жыл бұрын
Must have affordable staples in the cabinet: 1. Bunna 12 2. Glendronach 12 3. Laphroaig QC 4. Deanston 12 5. Glenfarclas 105
@wawacrapusername
5 жыл бұрын
I have never seen the Deanston or Clynelish in australia I will be keeping a keen eye out. I tried the Ledaig 10 after hearing you speak about it and now its one of my top 5 favourites to go to. Here's my top 5: 1. Nikka yoichi 2. Ledaig 10 3. Uigeadail 4. Lagavulin 16 5. Laphroaig 10
@riancreamer6904
6 жыл бұрын
Yep, I'd happily have any of those in my cabinet! Only one I've not tried is the Deanston but it's on 'the list' ;) My top five readily available and affordable I like to have on hand are: Ledaig 10, Ardbeg 10, Benromach 10, Springbank 10, Arran 14.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Great list (and great for value too) Rian, thanks for watching.
@billyhughes9776
6 жыл бұрын
I had the 8y0 CS KilKerran at a tasting a few months ago -- was by far the favorite of everyone there. Uniquely delicious. Lag 8yo far cheaper than the 16yo standard where I'm at and I'd say I like it more. One of my favs up there with Ardbeg 10yo. The Old Pultney 17yo is excellent. My top 5: 1. Ardbeg 10/and or Uigeadail 2. Talisker 10/and or DE 3. Abelour A'Bunadh 4. Lagavulin 8yo 5. Johnnie Walker Green
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Good list of mentions - and JW Green, a great malt often overlooked! Thanks Billy.
@BabblingSpoon
6 жыл бұрын
Great review Roy. I love your enthusiasm. Keep up the good work. My top 5 for the not so expensive whiskies at the moment: spring bank 10, ardbeg 10, lagavulin 16, laphroaig quarter Cask and glenmorangie quinta ruban. Cheers mate.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the nice words! Yes, the Springbank 10 was a deliberate omission due to inconsistency in supply. Cracking whisky though.
@Spirited1
6 жыл бұрын
What a wonderful, thoughtful and reasonable Top 5 List you have. Makes one wonder why they would feel the need to spend more when those fine whiskies are so affordable and available. A very notable mention you made of Ledaig 10 year old too! Would love to hear your "Top 5 " thoughts on blended scotch whiskies and bourbons as well.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Blended is a great idea, although I don't sip a lot of blends if I'm honest. I am starting to get familiar with some bourbons but I'm still in kindergarden. Thank you Spirited!
@ConcaCon
3 жыл бұрын
Hey Roy, I have just bought a trio of Deanston whiskies, those being: Virgin Oak (which I've already had, and LOVED), Deanston 12 and Deanston 10 Bordeaux Cask (which was on offer at an impossible to resist price at 32 EUR). Knowing how you love Deanston, and how much the entry range Virgin Oak impressed me, I look forward to trying the other two.
@Aqvavitae
3 жыл бұрын
I’ll make a prediction. You’ll love the bold, bright hooks and flavours of the 10 & the VO and the 12 will leave you contemplative. Halfway down you’ll be torn. By the end of the bottles you’ll be replacing the 12. Probably immediately. Really hope you enjoy, and that is a good price!
@JordyVercauteren
5 жыл бұрын
Very interesting video (as always). Here's my 5 go to whiskies: 1. Method and Madness Pot Still 2. Compass Box Spice Tree 3. Linkwood 12 4. Deanston 12 5. Benromach 12 Close to these: Redbreast 12, Glenlivet 18, Hakushu DR, Clynelish 14
@MarkusKreitner
6 жыл бұрын
Lagavulin 16 is something that will always be in my collection. It was the first bottle ever that I replaced before the open one was empty. The others I would always like to have are Glenfarclas 105 (very tasty and if watered down a bit explodes with flavour), Clynelish 14, Deanston 12 (thanks for the recommendation Roy) and something from Talisker (*Storm or 10). Sláinte Roy!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Good calls Markus and a lot of folks love their Talisker, while I've grown to like it - it's never been a favourite. (Yet!) So glad you're enjoying Deanston and Clynelish, 105 is a good shout too. I think you'd also enjoy some glengoyne cask strength. Cheers Markus!
@ZDWildCamping
6 жыл бұрын
As whisky changes and changes so much (radically even, some would argue) I was glad to see you added ‘2018’ in the title. I’d say that by 2019 and definitely by 2020 that list my change. I know mine will. If I am to dismiss all those that aren’t available anymore - despite having a few spare bottles (like AnCnoc 16 or Old Pulteney 17) and consider only those bottles I always have open regardless of time of year: Bunnahabhain 12 Glenfarclas 15
@mainzman7239
3 жыл бұрын
Oh my, I have all of those whiskies. I've always thought I have a very similar taste to you Roy, this pretty much confirmed it.
@joew1852
6 жыл бұрын
I like how most distilleries on anniversaries release some 200 dollar older whiskey but lagavulin always goes younger and affordable but still just as delicious.
@lemonflyable
6 жыл бұрын
I really enjoyed this video and find it very helpful. I am just starting my whisky collection and my first bottle is lagavoulin 16, I love it so much! I am looking forward to adding the other bottles you've mentioned!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Great to hear - feedback how they go for you too!
@cs1874
6 жыл бұрын
Roy, I'd agree on some of your recommendations...1. Lagavulin 16, 3. Ledaig 10, 4. Talisker 10 , 5. Clynelish 14, ....but I'd always have 2. Aberlour 16 in there. Looking forward to the next list....Mortlach 16 F&F perhaps?
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Aberlour 16 is a heartbreak whisky for me, can you imagine how good that would be at a decent ABV? In the UK it's at 40% and every time I feel robbed. I guess I could throw in a splash of A'bunadh and still have a nice single malt. Cheers Craig.
@cs1874
6 жыл бұрын
Agreed ...a higher ABV would be nice, but perhaps the 40% is what helps make it such an easy go to dram...I just find it delicious and goes down all too easily. A'bunadh was actually my first ever foray into Aberlour
@ryanmarchetti4317
5 жыл бұрын
I was able to find Clynelish 14 in Portland, ME USA. It was 44$ and it was so damn good! Thank you for the recommendation!
@11thstalley96
4 жыл бұрын
Very well thought out list and and your reasoning was presented very articulately. I was struck by the wording that you used to describe your feelings about the number one on your list, Lagavulin 16 yo, which would also be in my top five, always on hand, list. In my mind, that wording would also apply to Laphroaig 10 yo, which is also a sort of touchstone for me since my first taste of it 30 + years ago.
@Shane4Bass
5 жыл бұрын
I've been watching all the end of 2018 reviews. Started with Ralfy, then Mark's whisky ramblings, liquor hound and now yours. All good, although I have not yet had a chance to check out whisky Wednesday or Horst Luening. All great quality reviews. Keep um coming in 2019! Merry Christmas and happy new year!
@RhysDardis
5 жыл бұрын
I started my whisky journey with Highland Park 12 VH knowing I really wanted to try Lagavulin 16, I have a bottle waiting for the anniversary to open it. Really looking forward to the Lagavulin. Interested to try some Japanese whiskys as well, the Japanese Harmony is on the list.
@justinmaizeblue
6 жыл бұрын
Roy, I really enjoy your review content. The bit you do next to the recycling container is brilliant. I wish you had more like that! The live events are tough to watch due to the duration. More recorded bits!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
I hear you - the lives are there for the event of being "live" the duration is the duration, but I can knock them out with some prep and a tidy up afterward. 5 hours max all told. The pre-recorded stuff takes a day for a quick one and longer for something more project-focused. Recycled I can do in a day, but honestly - can you imagine my liver if I put out a monthly recycled? Thanks my friend.
@davidbudzynski9290
5 жыл бұрын
@@Aqvavitae Maybe you could consier cutting up intersting bits from your live streams and upload them as short videos. I've seen quite a few people that do that (although not whisky-related channels).
@JB-pk8vm
5 жыл бұрын
I just started drinking whisky, coming from Dutch (old) jenever and korenwijn and I recently purchased the Lagavullin 8 and I have to say : I love it!
@Mose2305
6 жыл бұрын
Your go to 5 is a perfect balance of great Scotch whiskies. My favorite is the Clynelish 14, but sometimes I lean toward the Isle of Arran 14. My go to is: Cardhu 12, Macallan 12, Old Pultney 12, Bunnahabain 12, and finally Glen Garioch 12. The search for new whiskies to try is an adventure that can bring a life time of happiness. Slainte to a life well lived full of great drams!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Ooooh Mose! That Arran is going down well here right now - a damn fine call and one that could have made it in on another day.
@speedrakk
5 жыл бұрын
glen garioch such a wonderful pear note . one of my faves.
@markg913
6 жыл бұрын
Love your videos, such credible whisky advice...and a fantastic soundtrack, quality all round!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Wow! thank you Mark, please come back soon!
@DuncanHarmsworth
6 жыл бұрын
Those are all great choices Roy! I was a bit surprised at not even an honorable mention for the Glendronach 12, with your list though I guess it is not surprising on second thought because the closest you get to sherried whisky is Lagavulin 16. Well, each to their own. Since everyone else is doing a top 5 list of absolute must haves, here goes (in no order because I must have them all)... 1. Glendronach 12 - 2. Clynelish 14 - 3. Lagavulin 16 - 4. JW Green Label (first love nostalgia going on here) - 5. Ledaig 10. I look forward to your next video, Cheers! 🥃
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
You know, I think GlenDronach 12 really deserves to be in a crowd-sourced top 5, but for me it was easy to choose other things over the soft sherried style drams - Mac, Glengoyne, Glenfarclas, GlenDronach, - all of them. I fully expect to find myself back there one day, but right now they're occasional pleasures, not my go to's.
@TheOneGlassMan
5 жыл бұрын
Great video to go back to and calibrate the common malt experience Roy... can’t argue with any of your choices for top five and honorable mentions. Thanks
@justinmaizeblue
6 жыл бұрын
My five 1. Oban 14 (like your lagavulin 16, it brings me back to what I started with). 2. Clynelish 14 3. Compass box spice tree 4. Highland park 12 5. Macallan (whatever current edition is avail, now the #4). Amazing.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Solid list. I'm a sucker for the Spice Tree too.
@dram_mondays
6 жыл бұрын
Man I am so with you here! 1) Lagavulin 12 2) Springbank 12 3) Clynelish 14 4) Kilkerran 12 5) Bunnahabhain 12 Haven’t had a chance to try the Deanston 12 yet. But I know what I’m buying tonight.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Awesome. Let me know how that Deanston experience goes - try to get the latest packaging which I show here.
@keithjensen3810
6 жыл бұрын
My first Peated Scotch was the Lagavulin 16. Love at first breath! I did not want to exhale. This is my all time favorite to which all others are judged. Thank you to the Scotch 4 Dummies for it and Thanks to the Scotch Test Dummies and you for the Lagavulin 12 year old 2017 Cask Strength recommendation. :0)
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Glad you're enjoying SD Dude!
@everwind5691
6 жыл бұрын
Wonderful video, I have yet to find a Clynlish 14, but have been hunting for it. Mine 1-Glendronach 12, 2-Deanston 12 (You converted me) 3-Bunnahabhain 12, 4-Balvenie 12 Doublewood (Its the one that got me into Scotch from Irish). Number 5 is mood influenced. I am not a peat guy, but I appreciate the Laga 16, Springbank 10, and recently Glen Scotia 15 a lot). I too give honorable mention to the Op 17. I love this stuff. This is why I really enjoy scotch as opposed to Bourban, The diversity in flavors is truly amazing. They can all touch your soul in different ways and when shared with a friend....the best.
@raymondreimer7521
6 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@TelextheWhiskyTech
6 жыл бұрын
I can hook you up with the Clynelish 14 sometime old man =) I know where you can get a bottle locally as well.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Glen Scotia is a great shout - I just think that availability isn't great on it yet... you think? thanks Everwind!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
That's a saintly gesture Telex!
@everwind5691
6 жыл бұрын
It was a available and then Ralfy gave it such a high mark. It sold out in week or 2 after the airing of his video. Ralfy has that kind of power, and reaches across the pond.
@sugarkitty4777
3 жыл бұрын
Of course it's a great list, although I just couldn't put both Lag on a list that short even though the 16 would be there. For me, Talisker was a gateway drug for me and I would always have it on my list. I need Highland Park - I can smell the bees, hear the malt, and taste the wind on it. Glenmo is probably not far behind. I'd have a tough time with which one is last - Balvenie Double Wood, that Clynelish, or of late AnCnoc is really hitting it out of the park.
Oooh - a sherry head then Jez? Only Ardbeg 10 is sherry-free! Cheers my friend!
@colinglen4505
6 жыл бұрын
always nice to hear the views of someone who has a passion for whisky.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
The whisky beats it's way out of me. I love it so.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Ooops - thanks Colin!
@jonathanflowers472
6 жыл бұрын
I always keep tomatin 14yr Portwood, Glenmorangie Lasanta, Lagavulin 16 and glenfiddich 14yr bourbon barrel reserve on hand. Gives a great change of very affordable whiskies to match any scotch-mood.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
That's a neat line up Jonathan, Tomatin a great shout, especially for value. Thank you.
@duanejameslarge9920
6 жыл бұрын
Roy, this was another great high quality video as usual ! While it is really hard to pick just 5 for this list, based on value, here are my top 5. Not surprisingly for me personally, it is an all Islay list: 1. Ardbeg Uigeadail, 2. Lagavulin 16 , 3. Ardbeg 10, 4. Laphroaig 10, 5. Bunnahabhain 12 . I know what you mean about a special whisky and a personal connection to it like you mentioned with the Lagavulin 16. For me, it is the Laphroaig 10 and it will always have a special meaning for me. About 30 years ago, I tried Laphroaig 10 for the first time, my first Islay peated Whisky, and I have consumed many bottles of it over the years. Therefore, it will always have a preferred place on my bar. Sláinte !
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
You are a true lover of the magical Isla Duane, good shouts all! And you're probably one of the most experienced and well-versed at Laphroaig through the years. Slàinte right back!
@thomasbuck303
6 жыл бұрын
Top 5 cheap go to whiskies 1. Old Pulteney 12 ($38) 2. Laphroaig 10 ($35) 3. Wyoming Whiskey ($35) 4. Slaine Triple Cask Irish ($25) 5. Wild Turkey 101 ($20) Honorable Mention: Glenfarclas 12 ($45). Thanks for the video! My thoughts on your list: I need to try that Clynlish 14 still. I prefer the ardbeg and Laphroaig 10 to the lag 8. The Deanston 12 was tasty, but never really spoke to my soul (I think heavy barley sugar notes are not really my cup of tea). I also really like the Lag 16, but I prefer wild and charismatic whiskies to balanced ones. I also thing the Lag 16 is a little pricey at $85 here.
@danielh750
4 жыл бұрын
Hi Roy, I absolutely love Clynelish 14! I do have a question. What do you recommend to a Clynelish fan outside of the 14? I noticed there isn't much from their distillery available. Thanks!
@capnmakeithappin537
6 жыл бұрын
Couldn't agree more on the Clynlish 14 and Lagavulin 16!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Capn' MakeItHappin' thank you Cap! 😊
@scottclarke1350
5 жыл бұрын
I spent hours with my first glass of clynelish because of how awe inspiring the experience was
@choppersplace
5 жыл бұрын
Laguvulin...any particular yr? As I see on some sites different yrs listed..also what of the distiller edition?
@TomTubbs
2 жыл бұрын
Lagavulin 16 - £10-15 more now as now £60-65 Oct 2021. To be honest I’m just trying what we’re recommendations several years ago - Deanston 12, Clynelish, Lagavulin 16! A whisky journey enhanced by WhiskyTube highlighting so many great whiskies.
@jaychung6622
6 жыл бұрын
Thanks for a great selection and for giving us your reasoning behind all the selections. I love these videos & I can’t imagine how difficult it must’ve been for you to select just 5! Personally, my top 5 go-back-to whiskies would be: (1) Lagavulin 8 (absolutely agree 100% with everything you said about this beauty); (2) Old Pulteney 12 (I get just enough echo of the beloved 17 & 21 in the baby brother so that I keep going back to the 12); (3) Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban (I’m a sucker for Port finished whisky and, imo, glenmorangie’s done a great job with this one. Also super affordable & easy to find anywhere); (4) Redbreast 12 Cask Strength (affordable, beautiful and oh so easy to drink. Always my go-to Irish dram); (5) Angel’s Envy Port Finished Bourbon (again, I’m a sucker for Port finishing. This beautiful whiskey gives me the best of bourbon notes with an interesting kiss of port. Also cheap & available everywhere). Thanks again for all the great videos you put out! If you get a chance, I’d love to get your recommendation on whether I should try the Deanston 12 or 14yo organic as my first Deanston? After hearing you & a few others extol the virtues of Deanston, I’ve been meaning to try it asap. Both the 12 & 14 are fairly similarly priced (only about $20 difference) so I’d love to get your thoughts on which you think I should try first
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
The organic should be a 15yo but there was a"hiccup" with the first batch and it was rendered 14yo. It's a very good dram, really. But if you can find the newly packaged 12yo - that's the one to go for (as featured here) and it's great. Would love to get your feedback on it.
@TheMashandDrum
6 жыл бұрын
Great video Roy! That Lagavulin 8 makes we want to get the 16. I loved it! Deanston 12 and Clynelish are on my list. Slainte!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Excellent - on the Deanston make sure you pick up the newer packaging I share here.
@loknes3924
6 жыл бұрын
Great list Roy, I wish there were more Deanston options here in Ontario. My top 5 affordable and available are. 1)Ardbeg 10. 2) Highland Park 12. 3) Lagavulin 16 4) Glendronach 12 5) Old Pulteney 12.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
The OP12 should be in there too, but there's so much out there! Good shouts Locknes!
@kennethkennelty7652
6 жыл бұрын
Lagavulin 16 was my first serious scotch and will always be No. 1.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Funny how so many people say that - hence why I declared it our finest ambassador. Thank you Kenneth!
@kellywellington7122
Жыл бұрын
Heh....Lag16 was part of my journey. A detour, actually. After decades of blissful ignorance when I bascially drank only Glenfiddich 12, I stumbled across Highland Park Einar as a travel special (after having been to the Orkneys). It had a light smokey finish that I really liked. Unfortunately, none of the readily available core HP offerings provided that 'lilting hint of peat smoke' that I sought. I knew from my meetings with Laphroaig and Ardbeg that they were off my list. I then heard that peat flavoring is the first to go. It tames relatively quickly. So, I figured that an older (and much more expensive) Islay would have a more 'tamed' peat flavor. I put down the $100 US for a bottle of Lag16. It was true; it was tamed. Compared to Laphroaig and Ardbeg, at least. But, the peat flavor still had that...lapsang tsuchong creosote flavor that alienates me. Lag16 just wrapped it up with other stuff that it was muffled. Then I found Benromach. I had to buy the expensive 15 year before I got my hands on the 10, but I had come home. This was my sought after flavor profile. When I got the 10, I confirmed that it was a more robust and brash expression of the more 'cultured' 15. The Lag16 still holds a place of honor in my selection and it is offered around as 'what Nick Offerman drinks'. It will not go to waste, as I will drink it. And, it is still the elder in my cabinet. That's gotta count for something.
@dribsanddrams
3 жыл бұрын
That Lagavulin 16 was my gateway whisky. It costs the moon here in Quebec these days; I haven't picked it up in many years, but I keep meaning to check it out again for kind of the reasons you mentioned. The liquor commission here is all out of that Clynelish, but I'll check it out if it ever shows up again here. I recently picked up that Kilkerran 12 to do a review of. I should probably get on that...
@niallchapman7655
2 жыл бұрын
great video :) of all the whiskytube reviewers, i come back to your videos time and again :p (perhaps i'm biased, being scottish too :p i revisit ralfy's videos just as often). sharing your informed and experienced voice to help guide those of us with more limited budgets is greatly appreciated :) on a side note - i was intrigued at the prospect of a futurama-themed whisky, due to one of the "chapter names" in the timeline being "calculon 12 year old" :p seems that there was an "auto-transcribe" failure to interpret "kilkerran 12 year old" correctly >_< keep up the good work :)
@mainzman7239
5 жыл бұрын
Hi Roy. Based on your recommendation a bottle of Clynelish 14 arrived this afternoon. I'm waiting for it to warm up before I give it a try. I'll let you know how it goes : )
@TelextheWhiskyTech
6 жыл бұрын
I was 100% on board (especially the Clynelish 14) as it definitely deserves more love. I was surprised though when you picked the Laga 8 over the Distillers Edition. Hmm, I can understand if you want that nice breakfast dram with the toast and ham vs. the sherry.... I just love my sherry though. Great video my friend - cheers, and hope to open the Laphroaig soon.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
The DE has never been a favourite, always a solid dram but it's never captured me - and I've had a lot of them over the years. Just finished a 1993, a 1995 and working on a 1999 at the moment. Still a good shout Telex. I think I sent you the Laphroaig I drew from the cask in the Islay video right? That was a great day!
@loretolopez1536
3 жыл бұрын
I really appreciate your advices. We´ve just tried a lagavulin 16 because of you! hahaha. I'm beginner but I believe is one of the most different and marvelous flavours I ever taste. Thanks!
@Aqvavitae
3 жыл бұрын
The road ahead is amazing... enjoy 😉
@leroyprice3168
6 жыл бұрын
Roy, very interesting video! I'm fairly new to scotch so still trying various expressions and have many at home that I have yet to taste. However at this point in time I favor the following. Lagavulin 16, Caol Ila 12, Deanston 12, Arran 14 and Clynelish 14 (I also have a 15 special bottling as well that I haven't tried yet). Haven't tried the Bunnahabhain 12 yet but I have it. Its nice to know that I have similar tastes to you which will help in future selections. Thanks LeRoy....
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Spot on, it's like reading my own shelf! You're bang on track. Cheers LeRoy.
@robertanderson2189
4 жыл бұрын
As an American, my list might be a bit different, all relatively easy to obtain in the US: Lagavulin 14 (for bourbon and scotch drinkers) Colonel EH Taylor Small Batch Laphroaig Lore Nikka from the Barrel (need to represent Japan) Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond (knocked Old Ezra 7 off the list)
@jkvan368
6 жыл бұрын
Great video and list, my current go to whiskies are(1-5): Ardbeg 10, Macallan 12, Glenfiddich 15, Deanston VO and Compass Box Oak Cross. Looking to get Deanston 12 soon!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Oak Cross? Wow, good left-fielder! Thanks JK.
@NoNonsenseWhisky
6 жыл бұрын
It's been such a long time since I had a 'go to'. I'm always buying different bottles. I do miss having something steady in the cabinet though
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
There's a core few expressions Vin that I like to have to help newbies (new meat!) when they arrive at Casa Aqvavitae, under the guise of a "dinner" or "coffee" invite - only to get clubbed by me trying to indoctrinate them into whisky!
@pcnau92
6 жыл бұрын
Great stuff, Roy. Given that I’m fairly new to the world of whisky, I haven’t tried many of these yet. I’ll make sure to do something about that soon though. Cheers!
@WhiskeyCrusaders
5 жыл бұрын
Great video Roy for me Wolfburn Morven, Ardbeg Corryvekan, Caol Ila 18yr unpeated, Glengoyne 10yr, and Glen Grant 12yr.
@inlimborwc
5 жыл бұрын
Amazing video! Lagavulin 16 got me in to whisky too. You expressed so well the feeling of having it as a solid base, as "home"...
@Aqvavitae
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you. It is though, like an anchor to judge the journey by.
@shugaroony
6 жыл бұрын
Another great vid mate, most of those choices I thoroughly concur with (except the Clynelish 14, just couldn't get a handle on that at all). Prefer the Lag 16 to the 8, though heard great things about the 12. Grabbed a bottle of Bunna 12 again the other month. First time in about three years since I had it, and immediately remembered why I love it, it really should be a mainstay on everyone's shelf. Was annoyed the day after I bought it though (£33 Sainsbury's), as missed an unbelievable deal at Morrison's where they were getting rid of the stock of the 12's for £20 a bottle! Still gutted about missing out on that. They replaced it with the Stiùireadair. Is that any good, is it worth a purchase? Really liked the Kilkerran 12 too, and agree about that salty buttery note through it, just adds depth to a fairly light but very tasty dram. Ashamed to say I haven't tried the Deanston 12 or Ledaig 10 yet, they look like being some of my Christmas purchases I reckon! :)
@bartdamen2161
6 жыл бұрын
Heard ya humming ;) 5. Springbank 10 4. Clynelish 14 3. Lagavulin 16 2. Balvenie 12 SB 1. Glenfarclas 15 I really struggled omitting Ledaig 10, and Amrut Fusion.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
See! It's damn difficult huh? (You're the only one that noticed me placing a wee easter egg in there for another channel - good spot) Thanks Bart!
I was waiting for you do to a video like this! Awesome!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
If I'm gonna thank anyone, I'll thank Batman!
@125ctg
Жыл бұрын
2023, just bought one of my favourites, Clynelish 14,surfed some reviews and whilst doing that spotted this vid. Scary stuff, the first four are sitting on my cabinet here behind me. The fifth (Laga 16) is a firm fave also but in 2023 in Australia it’s moved from affordable to starting to hurt. If I had to name a fifth, purely based on price ( and for sentimental reasons) it would be Johnny Green, on taste Cotswolds Founders Choice or Arran, pretty much any expression.
@mlguzman75
6 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing your top 5, I am still new in my whisky journey and have not had any of those, but now I will have to add them to my to do list.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
I think you'll not go too far wrong! 😉 Thanks for watching and commenting.
@hbgjerome
5 жыл бұрын
Top 5 1 Lagavulin 16 2 Highland Park 12 3 Talisker 10 4 Ardbeg 10 5 Cragganmore 12 Not always in that order - depends on the mood!
@Aqvavitae
5 жыл бұрын
Mood is crucial and often overlooked. Thanks Howard!
@thelaw5873
5 жыл бұрын
Only had highland park. Was fantastic. Will try your number 1
@lushuoling
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you all for sharing your lists, it's very valuable
@DonnerPassWhisky
6 жыл бұрын
OK so the 1 thumbs down on this video has me wondering who got lost and stumbled into this? Great video I was expecting as this was a top 5 go to to see Glennfiddich 12 somewhere even if not on the list. My top 5 at this time in no order. Aberlour A'bunadh, got to have 1 sherry bomb. Aultmore 12. Bunnahabhain 12. Clynelish 14 or Compass Box the Spice Tree, these are tied and cant make up my mind. Deanston 12. Honorable mentions: Craigellachie 13, Glengoyne 12, Old Pulteney 12. Cheers Roy
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
The more down thumbs I get indicates KZitem is sharing my video outside of my usual circles, I'll read it as a good sign. Opinion pieces like this should also attract quite a few who don't find their favourites and it disgruntles them. Glad you liked it though DPW! Good shouts on your list too - I have guilt about not having a Glengoyne in there, given how pivotal a whisky it was for me.
@tonyditommaso9229
6 жыл бұрын
Great video Roy. Its good to know i have 3 out of the 5 choices and your honourable mentions as well. I havent tried the Deanston 12 and havent seen it in Canada. How do you feel about theDeanston virgin oak? Thinking of trying it . Have you?? Also curious of what you think of the Lagavulin Distillers Edition as well. Slainte
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Lagavulin DE is good but I prefer the standard. The Deanston VO is good, but it's a different animal, it's a sweeter whisky with lots of bourbon-esque notes. Still, I do enjoy it and it's very good value.
@ScotchTestDummies
6 жыл бұрын
Great video Roy and excellent list! Only slightly jealous of the Alexa special deliveries!
@sirspark-a-lot8782
6 жыл бұрын
OK you two Dummies. You're in a great position to provide us Yankees with both a bourbon AND a scotch must-stock Top 5. Roy has challenged you. :)
@bdp514am
6 жыл бұрын
slightly, doesn't quite cover my jealousy. Although the lack of that option is probably good for my bank balance.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Cheers boys! Great idea! And yes - I realise we're spoiled here. The reason I did that in this video was to demonstrate the "available" qualifier. But yeah, we are pretty lucky.
@Matt-gf4gd
6 жыл бұрын
*you mean VERY F***Ing Jealous... Indeed.
@In_MT
6 жыл бұрын
Thank you. Our lists compare very favorably, however I must now search for Clynelish, and Kilkerran here in the US. Thanks again
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
When you find it - share your thoughts!
@WhiskyWhistle
6 жыл бұрын
Excellent list, Roy, and having enjoyed all of these I will concur with 3 of 5 of them. Clynelish will always be on my shelf and will have a permanent place in my archives. I have yet to find a D 12 to replace mine, but it rests in the archives awaiting a future tasting. Kilkerran was my whisky of the year for 2016. I love Lagavulin, but they are just too expensive where I live, so they are one and done’rs for me, if I decide to get them at all. A trip south is in order! Then a trip to your neck of the woods when I can. Do I win longest post? Cheers brother🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃 Mark
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Thank you Mark! Not at all on the longest post! Keep it coming, and if that trip switches from threat to reality - we will share fine pours! Thank you.
@erickhines4121
6 жыл бұрын
Always in my cabinet whiskys: Green spot, Redbreast 12 cask, Lagavulin 16, Hibiki Harmony, and Eagle Rare Bourbon 👌
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Never tried the Harmony 9or don't have a memory of it), the Eagle Rare is a compelling dram though. Cheers Erick.
@moemohamed8891
5 жыл бұрын
Redbreast 12 CS is gorgeous.
@justinb1574
6 жыл бұрын
Lagavulin 8 is a wonderful recommendation. Your thoughts are just as excellent on KZitem as they are at the bar. Love the content!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Ha! which bar Justin? - Downtown Austin per chance? Thank you!
@broncorog3163
6 жыл бұрын
Nicely done. I have yet to try any Kilkerran and Lag 8. My Top 5 would be. 5. Talisker 10, 4. Deanston 12, 3. Dronach 12, 2, Clynelish 14, and totally agree with Lag 16 as number 1.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Couple of good shouts there Rog, thank you. I'll compile a list and pin it.
@jbennison5672
4 жыл бұрын
Glad to see Clynelish is there. Amazing whisky. Especially considering that its only £30 here in China
@adrianbell6051
6 жыл бұрын
Thanks Roy for a great video! I love your measured and clear comments, I also love your choices and will now seek out the Clynelish on your recommendation!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Would love to hear how you go with that Clynelish. Thanks Adrian.
@adrianbell6051
6 жыл бұрын
I’m in Australia Roy, i loved your comments about Lagavulin 16. It was a ‘beginning’ for me too. I tried Legaig after watching your videos. Really enjoyed it! Now I have to find the Clynelish. It is not so common here. Cheers!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Hope it's worth the effort Adrian!
@adrianbell6051
5 жыл бұрын
Hi Roy, Just wanted to follow up on my Clynelish 14 story. Following the discussion above with you I went looking. Found it, bought it, loved it! Interestingly, it took a view drams to love it. Not sure what else I’d drunk before it the first time but I was unimpressed. A few days later and then a few days after that I tried some more. A month later as I got towards finishing the bottle, I can’t wait to replace it. Roy thanks again for your style and advice. Very much appreciated! 😉🥃
@Radioactive_Slime
6 жыл бұрын
Can’t really pin down a top 5 list at the moment but I can say, hands down the best (personal opinion) whisky I’ve enjoyed was The Bowmore Tempest V. Absolutely delicious.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
I've yet to try! Thanks for watching though and yes - it's difficult to tie down.
@triplecap4307
6 жыл бұрын
I like Lag 16 a lot too, but when you see what they can do there with other more limited bottlings it does make you wonder. Not to mention the annual 12 series, which I think is better. Nice show by the way mate. Did you notice that Celtic are still kicking ass?
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Hi TC! I noticed they had their ass kicked - a second half meltdown! Agree on the 12, the 16 is first here because of where it is a s a value, and an ambassador for scotch whisky, and where it is in my heart. Objectively speaking, the 12 beats it. But the 2018 release just had a huge price hike. Damn it!
@Jpass49
6 жыл бұрын
My top 5 Scotch, in no particular order: Highland Park 18, Kilkerran 12, Ardbeg Uigeadail, Benromach 15, Springbank 12 Cask Strength. You’re list is solid, and I love the background music!
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Such a timely message - just when I've been taking some heat for the music - thank you!
@georgekaplan5073
6 жыл бұрын
Great video Roy and thanks for the dedication! Aimee forewarned me that your number one story was similar to mine. I guess she’s heard me tell mine enough now. I’m not sure I could come up with a list of 5. I was just looking around at my shelves and it’s hard for me to find 5 that I would consider go to whiskies that are “readily available”, or are not so region or type specific. I will comment about your #2 and #1 though. I just opened a Clynelish 14 so I could top off a Peat Infinity bottle I plan to share at the STD 5. Hoping the Clynelish gives it some character. For the Lagavulin 16, around 2010, 2011 I was at a work conference in Massachusetts and at a team building dinner event we had some whisky. I was introducing my Mexican colleague to Lagavulin 16 and told him as he was smelling the glass, “it has all the benefits of smoking with none of the negative side effects.” It must have made an impression on him because a couple weeks ago when I was visiting in Mexico he brought it up at dinner, “you remember that time that you were telling me about smoky whisky and you said...?” And he remembered exactly what I said. Lagavulin 16 has that effect on people.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Fully agree GK, it really is one of the industries best ambassadors and my most effective weapon and converting non-whisky people into the fold. I'll never forget that sip of Lagavulin 16 that changed my life trajectory forever. And the dedication? An honest pleasure, to both of you.
@vegasart1
6 жыл бұрын
Great list Roy. Always use your recommendations to guide my growth further into scotch. As a Bourbon drinker who has been moving into scotch this is my list : Bookers, Pikesville Rye, Springbank 12 CS, Elijah Craig, Bunnahabhain 12. Honorable mention to Glenmorangie 18.
@Aqvavitae
6 жыл бұрын
Great list, you're drinking like a lord. The Springbank CS is great, usually. But here it's very often difficult to get and disappears fast. Thanks VegasArt!
@BabblingSpoon
5 жыл бұрын
Hi Roy, our taste is not so different. Here are my top 5 go to whiskies: 5. Springbank 10 4. Ardbeg 10 3. Aultmore 12 2. Glen Garioch 12 1. Lagavulin 16 Cheers Mate
@jamesboddington9565
Жыл бұрын
Greetings from the Malt wasteland that is Thailand and fellow Clynelish devotee. It's not easy to find and around double the price of the UK but Laga 16 is the only one of your 'widely available' top 5 availble here. Honourable mention to Arran 10 also available if you know where to look. I may or may not be guilty of finding a few extra bottles in my suitcase on the return journeys.
Пікірлер: 621